Chess Master Tunde Onakoya Reveals Ambition to Become a Billionaire With a Purpose

Tunde Onakoya, renowned chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, has opened up about his aspirations to build vast wealth and influence—beyond his current image as a charity leader and coach.

In a recent interview, Onakoya candidly shared his desire to become a billionaire, stating that he’s no longer hesitant to voice his ambitions. He made it clear that his goal is not driven by personal gain alone, but by a vision to amplify his impact on underprivileged children.

“I want to be a billionaire. And I mean that. I’ve always been afraid to say that,” Onakoya admitted. “I just don’t want to be known as just the Chess in Slums guy. The charity guy. I want to make a lot of money. And I also want to have a lot of power.”

He added that such power would carry weight and responsibility—one he is prepared to bear in service of the children he has long been committed to.

“With that power comes new responsibility. And my responsibility and duty will always be to the children,” he said.

Onakoya’s Chess in Slums initiative has gained widespread recognition for using the game of chess to educate and empower disadvantaged youth across Nigeria and beyond.